In the realm of infrastructure inspection, the use of drones has revolutionized the way we approach operational efficiency and worker safety. While drones have been employed for inspecting structures like bridges and dams, their application in inspecting more challenging environments, such as wastewater tunnels, is gaining traction. The ability of drones to autonomously navigate these spaces not only enhances safety but also makes previously inaccessible areas available for inspection.
The Rise of Autonomous Drones in Infrastructure Inspection
The infrastructure inspection industry has witnessed the emergence of several companies specializing in autonomous drone technology. Among these, Hovering Solutions, based in Spain but operating globally, stands out for its comprehensive end-to-end inspection workflow that revolves around autonomous drones. Founded by Fran Espada in 2016, the company was established to address the challenges of inspecting high-risk underground areas. Espada's background as an electronics engineer and his exposure to novel technologies for underground regions led him to recognize the need for advanced inspection tools. This realization culminated in the development of a UAV specifically designed for these inspections.
Hovering Solutions: A Game-Changer in the Industry
What sets Hovering Solutions apart from its competitors is its holistic approach to inspection workflows. The company not only manufactures its drones but also oversees the entire inspection process, from flying the drone to processing the data in-house. Their drones are equipped to capture panoramic images, akin to Google Street View, and 3D point clouds. These images and point clouds are georeferenced in absolute coordinates, enabling customers to measure aspects like cracks and other areas of concern. Furthermore, the data sets can be easily downloaded in standard formats, making them compatible with other software.
The efficiency of Hovering Solutions' drones is noteworthy. A typical drone flight can cover over a kilometer without needing a battery change or charge in approximately 25 minutes. Their record flight involved an autonomous journey through an underground hydro tunnel spanning seven kilometers, believed to be a global record.
The Future of Hovering Solutions
Since its inception in 2016, Hovering Solutions has grown exponentially. From starting with a single drone and founder, the company now boasts 15 employees and a vast training and testing facility in Madrid. Looking ahead, Espada envisions expanding the company's reach beyond Spain and neighboring countries. They have recently secured funding for international expansion, with plans to establish a presence in the United States and participate in exhibitions in the Middle East, Asia, and South America.
In terms of application, while the current focus is on wastewater tunnels, penstocks, and mining, Espada sees potential in the nuclear sector. He believes that their technology can ensure the safe disposal of contaminated parts, minimizing risks.
In conclusion, the advancements brought about by Hovering Solutions in the field of infrastructure inspection are commendable. Their commitment to enhancing safety, efficiency, and accessibility through autonomous drones is a testament to the potential of technology in transforming industries. As the company looks to expand its horizons, both geographically and in terms of application, the future holds promising prospects for Hovering Solutions and the infrastructure inspection sector at large.
Reference:
https://www.geoweeknews.com/news/hovering-solutions-autonomous-drones-inspections-wastewater-tunnels